Soft modeling for a certain class of intelligent and complex systems

This paper proposes a three-level hierarchical mathematical model for intel ligent and complex systems. Motivation, background, rationale, interpretati ons and potential applications are presented. Different visions from differ ent schools of thought in various academic disciplines are illustrated in a block; diagram. The concept of "soft-modeling", representing a dramatic de parture from conventional mathematical modeling, is also proposed. The char acteristics, approach, types of mathematics used and the interpretations th at will eventually lead to engineering realization and commercialization ar e also presented. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.